Illinois Promise Council (IPC) Ambassadors are dedicated to providing leadership and support for Scholar Support Programs and the broader Illinois Promise community. Ambassadors serve as the primary student leadership group for the Illinois Promise community, contributing to the development and enhancement of initiatives that foster academic success, personal growth, and community engagement. Through advocacy, collaboration, and innovative programming, the Council aims to create an inclusive environment where all Illinois Promise scholars can thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
Meet our Ambassadors
Our ambassadors share what Illinois Promise means to them – their advice, favorite parts of the program, and what inspired them to get involved.
Hamza Elayan
What is your biggest piece of advice for Illinois Promise scholars?
Plan ahead! Take time each week to map out what you want to get done. Make a four-year course plan early on so you can stay on track and make the most of your student experience. Get involved, especially in things that push you out of your comfort zone. My favorite way to do this has been by keeping an eye on student newsletters and campus emails. Take advantage of all the amazing opportunities available to us as UIUC students!
Michelle Garduno
What’s your favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar?
My favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar is feeling part of a community that not only values the different backgrounds and experiences of all students, but also actively advocates and provides for our needs as not only students, but also individuals. In times of stress and doubt, it seemed as if I-Promise always popped up at the right time with fun events that let me unwind without the worry of financial constraints or helped me gain back my sense of belonging just by being around other I-Promise scholars.
Gitsselle Hernandez
Why did you become an ambassador?
I became an ambassador because it was the first community I found in college that truly made me feel at home. My goal in life is to aid my community, and I know that by sharing my experiences as a first-generation, low-income student, I can help make I-Promise even stronger than it already is.
Abigail Islas
What is your biggest piece of advice for Illinois Promise scholars?
My biggest piece of advice would be to not be afraid of doing things alone or being the first. There are so many new experiences in college and it can feel very intimidating but I encourage scholars to not shy away from those experiences. Most people share the same feelings of fear, anxiety, excitement so you are not alone, try new things!
Abrielle Kapoor
Why did you become an ambassador?
I became an ambassador to give back to the Illinois Promise program and to help my peers.
What’s your favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar?
I love meeting other Illinois Promise scholars and attending events!
Zaineb Khaja
What’s your biggest piece of advice for Illinois Promise scholars?
Honestly, my biggest piece of advice is to really lean into the community and not be afraid to ask for help. I-Promise has so many resources and people who actually want to see you win – take advantage of that. Also, don’t feel like you have to have everything figured out right away. Everyone’s figuring it out in their own way and at their own pace.
Matthew Mendoza
Why did you become an ambassador?
I became an ambassador because I want to help the community who always helped me out.
What’s your biggest piece of advice for Illinois Promise scholars?
Try to make as many friends as possible.
Christian Morales
What’s your favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar?
The passion behind this community.
What is your biggest piece of advice for Illinois Promise scholars?
Never be afraid to reach out and be yourself. Everyone has a unique upbringing and take on life. Use that to make change your way, to take advantage of what’s available to you, and to seek opportunities your way.
Priscila Moreno
What is your favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar?
My favorite part about being an Illinois Promise scholar is the multitude of events that the Illinois Promise Council plans for their scholars to de-stress and relax! I also love collecting ducks at these events!
Why did you become an ambassador?
I became an ambassador for the Illinois Promise Council because of their dedication to building a sense of community, belonging, and inclusivity which is something I’d love to continue to foster!
Ronald Zeman Jr.
Why did you become an ambassador?
I decided to become an ambassador because I wanted to give back to the program that gave me the opportunity to come to the University of Illinois. Along with this, I wanted to welcome all the freshmen who can oftentimes find coming to University extremely overwhelming. I-Promise was a safe space for me, and I hope I can add to that environment.